SAMHSA releases report on addressing substance use caused by COVID-19

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently released a report titled “Executive Order Saving Lives Through Increased Support for Mental and Behavioral Health Needs Report,” that outlines a plan to address mental and substance use disorders caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The report highlights the importance of continuing to bolster prevention services, crisis services, Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs), services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system, programs to address homelessness, quality care, and training and technical assistance among others. The report also includes recommendations from federal agencies and suggestions regarding service and funding mechanisms.